Many of us make resolutions for the new year to help our neighbors. If you don't have any idea what you'd like to do, how about volunteering for Neighbor-Ride.

Neighbor-Ride provides transportation for senior citizens to go to medical appointments, shopping, and religious activities. If you would like to provide a ride for an older neighbor, call 410-884-RIDE for more information.

With the holidays coming, here is the list of county closings and changes. Government offices and Senior Centers will be closed from Dec. 24 through Jan. 1. The Gary J. Arthur Community Center will be closed, Dec. 24, 25, 31, and Jan. 1. There will be no trash pickup on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1.

The Ellicott City Façade Improvement Program has received a $50,000 grant from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. This program aids building owners in the repair and restoration of commercial buildings within the Ellicott City Historic District.

Among the projects to be funded are painting, awnings, lighting, new signs, masonry repair and door and window repair. Historic Ellicott City is one of our county's primary tourist attractions; so this grant will go a long way to make the area attractive to our out-of-town guests.

The Knights of Columbus of St. Michael's Catholic Church will be hosting a Basketball Free Throw Competition on Jan. 6 at 1 p.m. in the church gym. This event is open to boys and girls ages 10-14. For more information, call 410-489-9234.